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A Treat-Yourself Tea Party

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After a holiday reprieve from early mornings and daily commutes, getting back into the swing of things is no easy task. Give yourself and a few friends something to look forward to by planning an afternoon tea party. We have compiled a few tea-brewing tips, accessories, and tasty tea-friendly treats to help get your afternoon soiree started in style.

Steps to Steeping

Bring purified or spring water to a rolling boil to release its oxygen (unless you’re using green or white tea, in which case you’ll want to stop short so you don’t “cook” the delicate leaves. See time and temperature guides below).

Add small amount of boiling water to teapot to preheat and prevent crazing. Swirl and discard before filling to desired level.

Submerge 1 teaspoon or tea bag per 6-ounce cup. This is less than a mug and the volume of a traditional teacup.

Hint: For oolongs and high-quality white and green teas, multiple (3–5) infusions can bring out the complexities of the teas. For oolongs, the third time’s the charm, and for white or green teas, new water can be added multiple times at increasing temperatures.

Tea Tip

Commercial tea bags are often comprised of the dust or “fannings” of broken tea leaves. Switching to full leaf loose tea allows you to select higher quality leaves, the highest-prized being small, whole leaves or tips called pekoe.

Biscuits and Scones

Biscuits and scones are best when served the same day they are made. If you prefer to make them ahead of time, freeze them just before baking and then thaw and bake the same day you plan on serving them.